The Town of Blackfalds has announced they will be closing and changing the operation of their municipal facilities. This follows the province’s announcement of new public health measures on Tuesday.
This is the second time facilities have been forced to close in 2020 and the closures, as well as service adjustments, are expected to remain throughout the holiday season and into the new year.
The town shared the following statement in a release on Thursday, “The town’s top priority is the health, safety and well-being of the public and our employees, especially those who are most vulnerable.”
In compliance with the new restrictions, the changes will come into effect at 12:01 a.m. on Dec. 13. However, depending on the facility, the public might not notice the changes until the closest business day.
The Abbey Centre will be closed as of Dec. 12 at 10 p.m. and any inquires into memberships, registration, rentals or related services can be made to the guest services email or through social media channels.
As of next Monday, the Civic Cultural Centre including the municipal office and Blackfalds Public Library will be closed to the public. Staff can be contacted by phone or email as well as on social media platforms.
Residents who have questions about utilities, taxes, business licenses or other town services are being directed to the town’s website. The Civic Centre also has a drop-box available at the front door that will remain operational.
There are several application forms for utility bills, animal licenses and tax exemptions available for the public to use, and they can be found online. Planning and development applications are also available online.
The town is asking that people do not visit the town office in-person at this time.
Also effective on Dec. 14, the Operations Centre, Wadey Centre and the Community Centre will be closed to the public.
Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) will remain open but members of the public are being asked to call or email staff before arriving, if possible.
Several facilities have already made adjustments following the Dec. 8 announcement. This includes BOLT bus services limiting occupancy to a maximum of four riders. Physical tickets are now exclusively available at the FCSS office and riders are being encouraged to use electronic tickets.
The Multiplex Arena will remain closed.
Outdoor parks, playgrounds and rinks will remain open but the town is reminding residents to use these facilities at their own risk.
Outdoor rinks are meant to be shared with others but no more than ten people can be using the arena at one time.
Blackfalds residents can stay up to date on COVID-19 related information by visiting the town’s website.